While everyone has different opinions about whether or not snacking is “beneficial,” I find that my body needs something between 3 and 5pm. I’m a creature of habit, so I tend to reach for the same handful of things time and time again. Here’s a little list of afternoon snack ideas to get you through the last half of the day until dinner!

No Cow Bar and a Decaf Grande Iced Americano

My go-to combination. GNC and Vitamin Shoppe carry No Cow; my favorite flavors are Peanut Butter and Mint Cacao. The protein and fiber keep me full until dinner. I always pair it with a decaf iced americano from Starbucks. Yum!

Icelandic Yogurt and High Fiber Cereal or Fruit

Icelandic yogurt (skyr) is slightly thicker than greek yogurt and tends to have no sugar/fat. My favorite brand is Siggi’s but Trader Joes also carries their own version of skyr. I’ll pair a 0% plain yogurt with Fiber One cereal or strawberries.

Protein Smoothie

If I didn’t have a smoothie for breakfast, I’ll make one for snack. Usually I’ll do 2 scoops of Thorne Mediclear with water, but sometimes I’ll create something fancier with cashew milk, spinach, 1/2 banana, and a vegan protein powder.

Apple or Pear, Sliced and Sprinkled with Cinnamon

This is a classic! Snacks don’t have to be complicated. I love Pink Lady apples or Granny Smith apples sliced and sprinkled with a bit of Ceylon Cinnamon (the best type of cinnamon!). Sometimes I’ll top the apple with a slice of low fat cheese.

Homemade Crudite + Hummus

As summer approaches I find myself reaching for lighter, cooler snacks in the afternoons. I like to keep fresh bell peppers, endive, celery, and baby carrots in the refrigerator.  I’ll slice up a variety for snack and pair them with a couple tablespoons of my favorite hummus, which I buy at Whole Foods. This is a great option if you like crunch!

Sliced Turkey & Cheese Roll Ups

I always have nitrate-free slicked turkey (Whole Foods/Applegate) on hand for wraps, sandwiches, and this snack. I’ll take a couple slices and wrap them around one slice of low fat cheese. Sometimes I’ll add a bit of mustard, dill, steamed spinach, or oregano. This hits the spot when I’m craving something savory.

What’s your go-to afternoon snack? Do you snack at all? I’m always looking to add something to the rotation and would love to hear your ideas in the comments or on Instagram!